ASUS ROG NUC 970 Gaming PC Review: Redefining Compact Powerhouses
As a long-time enthusiast of custom-built PCs, I've always cherished the flexibility to choose every component, tailor performance, and the satisfaction of building my own rig that truly feels personal. Back then, gaming PC options were limited and prohibitively expensive. Building your PC wasn't just a cost-effective solution; it also allowed for personalisation and a sense of accomplishment. However, DIY builds demand time, space, and constant tinkering to keep up with advancements.
Times have changed. With many gaming laptops and PCs now available, the landscape for gamers and power users has shifted dramatically. Among these, the ASUS ROG NUC 970 caught my nephew's eye. A mini PC that promises high-end gaming and productivity in a compact form factor?
When my nephew proudly showcased his new ASUS ROG NUC 970, I was sceptical. I couldn't help but bombard him with questions. Why not build your own? Isn't a gaming laptop more practical? And most importantly, could such a small device deliver the power needed for gaming, productivity, and beyond? His answers — and my subsequent deep dive into the NUC 970 — changed my perspective on what mini PCs can offer.
However, its reliance on laptop-grade components does mean slightly weaker performance compared to desktop equivalents, and its high price positions it closer to premium gaming laptops than traditional desktops. While the ROG NUC 970 is perfect for a niche audience of gamers and professionals prioritising compactness and convenience, it may not appeal to those seeking maximum value or raw power. Despite its limitations and the higher price point, the ROG NUC 970 delivers an impressive balance of aesthetics, functionality, and performance, standing out as a compact powerhouse that challenges traditional gaming PC norms.
- Compact design with excellent build quality.
- Impressive gaming and multitasking performance.
- Quiet operation with effective cooling.
- Upgradeable RAM and storage.
- Can be used in a vertical or horizontal orientation
- RGB LEDs
- Expensive compared to traditional desktops.
- Non-replaceable CPU and GPU.
- Limited USB-C ports.
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 L 8GB
Intel Arc GPU2
RAM 16GB – DDR5 5600 8G x 2
Storage PCIEG4 512GB
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 L 8GB
Intel Arc GPU2
RAM 32GB – DDR5 5600 16G x 2
Storage PCIEG4 1TB
● Weight: 2.6 kg (5.73 lbs)
● Desktop Class: Gaming, Small Form Factor (SFF)
● Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 185H
● RAM (as configured): 32 GB (supports up to 64GB)
● Boot Drive Type: SSD
● Boot Drive Capacity (as configured): 1 TB (PCIEG4)
● Graphics Card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU
● Connectivity: 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
● Front I/O Ports: 1x card reader (SD) (UHS-I), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm headphone Jack
● Back I/O Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt 4 Type-C w/ DisplayPort 2.1, 2 x USB 3.2 Type A, 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x DisplayPort 1.4a, 1 x Ethernet, 1 x DC-in, 1 x Kensington Lock
● Operating System: Windows 11
What is a NUC?
For the uninitiated, NUC stands for Next Unit of Computing, a term originally coined by Intel. These compact PCs were designed to deliver desktop-class performance in a fraction of the space. Traditionally, NUCs were barebones kits requiring users to add their own RAM and storage.
In 2023, ASUS acquired Intel's NUC division, elevating the concept by introducing powerful GPUs. The ASUS ROG NUC 970, unveiled at CES 2024, redefines what a mini PC can achieve. With its mobile-class RTX 4070 GPU and high-power delivery, it's a standout in this emerging category.
Why the ASUS ROG NUC 970 Stands Out
Let's address the elephant in the room. Why choose a compact gaming PC like the ASUS ROG NUC 970 over a traditional DIY rig or a gaming laptop? My nephew's reasons were clear and compelling. The ASUS ROG NUC 970 isn't just a smaller version of a gaming PC; it's a reimagined powerhouse optimised for modern needs. Here's why it caught my attention:
Cutting-Edge Processor:
At its core lies the Intel Core Ultra 9-185H, a 22-thread processor with a hybrid architecture featuring performance and efficiency cores. This ensures seamless multitasking for gaming, content creation, and demanding workloads.
Memory and Storage:
With 32GB DDR5 RAM (expandable to 64GB) and a 1TB SSD, the NUC 970 is ready for today's and tomorrow's demands. Additionally, two extra PCIe 4.0 NVMe slots allow for substantial storage expansion.
Graphics Power:
The NVIDIA RTX 4070 Laptop GPU provides exceptional 1440p gaming performance, ray tracing and DLSS 3.0 for immersive visuals and optimised frame rates.
Compact Yet Functional Form Factor:
Its 2.5-litre size saves desk space, while thoughtful ventilation ensures efficient cooling. Whether placed vertically or horizontally, it integrates seamlessly into any setup.
The ASUS ROG NUC 970 impressed me with how it redefines what a compact gaming PC can offer. With its Intel Core Ultra 9-185H processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, it delivers seamless multitasking and exceptional 1440p gaming performance, all in a sleek 2.5-litre form factor. The expandable memory and storage, coupled with efficient cooling and versatile placement options, make it a perfect fit for modern setups that prioritise both power and space-saving convenience.
Unboxing and First Impressions: A Premium Experience
Opening the Box
The ASUS ROG NUC 970 unboxing is an event designed to impress right from the start. The packaging screams premium, with its sleek black box adorned with the iconic ROG logo and subtle metallic accents. As you lift the top lid, you're greeted with a protective foam layer, ensuring the device remains pristine during shipping. ASUS has thought about the presentation, adding to the sense of excitement as you unveil your new mini PC.
First Look: The ROG NUC 970
Underneath the foam lies the star of the show: the ROG NUC 970. Wrapped securely in an anti-static sleeve, the device itself is striking. Its matte black finish, angular design, and RGB-lit ROG logo instantly catch your eye. Despite its compact size, it feels solid, giving you confidence in its build quality.
Lifting the NUC out of the box, its weight struck me—it's heavier than I expected, but in a reassuring way that hints at the powerful components inside. At just 2.6kg and with a form factor smaller than most gaming laptops, it's remarkable how much ASUS has packed into this 2.5-litre chassis.
Exploring the Contents
Beneath the ROG NUC 970, you'll find two interchangeable faceplates, system documentation and warranty documentation.
Lifting the protective foam reveals the included accessories, all thoughtfully arranged.
- A 330W external power brick that is powerful enough to fuel the device's Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4070 GPU.
- A metal stand allows for vertical placement of the NUC. It's robust, with a brushed finish that complements the device's aesthetic.
- A local 3-pin power cable.
Build and Design: Small Yet Sophisticated
The ASUS ROG NUC 970's design perfectly balances form and function. At just 10.6 x 7.1 x 2.36 inches, it's smaller than most gaming laptops yet can pack desktop-level power.
Key Design Features:
- Matte Black Finish: Sleek and modern, with a subtle RGB-lit ROG logo for a gamer-centric aesthetic.
- Ventilation and Cooling: Large air vents and dual fans ensure efficient cooling during intense workloads, preventing thermal throttling.
- Customisable RGB Panel: The top RGB panel can be swapped out with custom designs, adding a personal touch to the device.
Connectivity Options:
The NUC 970 doesn't compromise on ports. This robust connectivity allows for multiple displays, fast data transfers, and easy peripheral integration.:
- Front Ports: Two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, headphone jack, SD card reader.
- Rear Ports: Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, two DisplayPort 1.4, four USB-A ports, and Ethernet.
Ease of Upgrades
While the CPU and GPU are soldered, ASUS simplifies upgrading RAM and storage.
The ROG NUC offers a relatively simple solution for maintenance and internal access. A rear latch unlocks the chassis to allow you to slide the case cover and expose a captive screw that you can then loosen.
Sliding the top case cover to the side, you can open the top part of the chassis, revealing the RGB logo. Rather than being stuck with a single RGB design, you can swap out a little plastic square with one that you buy online or design yourself, customising the look of the NUC a bit.
Next, unscrew the fastener located at the rear to detach the rear panel.
Once removed, slide off the metal cover to reveal the internal components.
Opening the case reveals a modular layout, allowing easy access to two SO-DIMM RAM slots and three M.2 PCIe 4x storage slots for upgrades. While the CPU and GPU are non-replaceable, the design balances accessibility and compactness.
- Two SO-DIMM slots: Supporting up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM.
- Three M.2 NVMe slots: Allowing for massive storage expansion.
This modularity ensures the device remains relevant as your storage or memory needs evolve.
Performance: Gaming and Beyond
The real question is, can the ASUS ROG NUC 970 perform? In short, yes — remarkably well.
Gaming Performance:
During testing, the NUC 970 consistently delivered impressive frame rates in modern AAA titles:
- Cyberpunk 2077: 70 FPS at 1440p Ultra with ray tracing and DLSS enabled.
- Assassin's Creed Mirage: Averaged 93 FPS on Ultra settings.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 60 FPS with ray tracing at max settings.
- Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege: Averaged 60 FPS at 1440p
- Asphalt Legends Unite: Averaged 58 FPS at 1440p
While the RTX 4070 Laptop GPU isn't quite as powerful as its desktop counterpart, its optimised power efficiency ensures smooth gameplay at 1080p and 1440p.
Productivity and Content Creation:
The Intel Core Ultra 9 processor proved its mettle during multitasking and productivity benchmarks:
- Video Editing: Rendered 4K footage in Adobe Premiere Pro without stutters.
- 3D Rendering: Blender projects were completed efficiently, rivalling mid-tier desktops.
- Multitasking: Even with 20+ Chrome tabs, Adobe Photoshop, and Spotify running, the system remained responsive.
Thermal and Acoustic Performance:
Despite its small size, the ROG NUC 970 maintains exceptional thermal management. Fans are audible under heavy loads but quieter than most gaming laptops. CPU and GPU temperatures stayed within safe limits, even during extended gaming sessions.
Editor's Final Thoughts: The Value Proposition of the ASUS ROG NUC 970
Who Should Consider the ROG NUC 970?
The ASUS ROG NUC 970 is a versatile mini PC that caters to several user profiles:
Pricing and Value
At a starting price of around SGD $3,200, the NUC 970 is undeniably premium. However, its price reflects the advanced engineering, performance, and compactness it offers. While traditional desktops might deliver more raw power per dollar, the NUC 970's convenience, size, and build quality justify the investment for those prioritising these factors.
Comparing the ASUS ROG NUC 970 to Alternatives
While DIY builds offer unparalleled customisation and cost-effectiveness, they require time, effort, and space. On the other hand, gaming laptops are portable but often compromise on cooling, keyboard quality, and upgradeability.
The ROG NUC 970 occupies a unique middle ground:
- Portability: Smaller than a desktop, more powerful than most laptops.
- Power Efficiency: Optimised for performance without the constraints of a laptop battery.
- Upgradeability: Offers more options than a laptop but less than a desktop.
Here's how the ASUS ROG NUC 970 stacks up:
Is the ASUS ROG NUC 970 WORTH THE HEFTY PRICE TAG?
The ASUS ROG NUC 970 sets a new benchmark for mini PCs, combining high performance, thoughtful design, and versatility in a compact package. While it doesn't aim to replace high-end custom desktops, it offers a compelling alternative for gamers, creators, and space-conscious users.
If you're seeking a blend of power, portability, and innovation, the ROG NUC 970 is an investment worth considering. It's not just a gaming PC; it's a glimpse into the future of compact computing.
